TEDxPaparangi Youth

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Aarthi Kannan

  Graduate Consultant @ PWC

  We spend so much time chasing the opportunities we can see - but what about the ones we don't even know are there? That's the question driving Aarthi Kannan's exploration of this year's theme. Growing up across Finland, New Zealand, and the United States taught her that every new perspective has the power to open a door she never knew was there. With a background in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence from Victoria University of Wellington, she now works as a graduate consultant in PWC's Digital & Data Transformation team. Beyond her professional career, Aarthi is a passionate community leader, having served across numerous university and community organisations, including as Executive Producer of the inaugural TEDxYouth@Paparangi in 2022. She's fascinated by the hidden opportunities that reshape the way we see the world - and by the possibilities that emerge when We begin questioning the assumptions we've always taken for granted.

• Aditi Tiwari

  Youth Advocate

  Aditi Tiwari is a first-generation migrant wahine, youth advocate, community organiser, and changemaker whose work spans youth advocacy, governance, climate action, and community development across Aotearoa. Working in the not-for-profit sector, she designs initiatives that empower rangatahi, particularly those from ethnic, migrant, and refugee backgrounds. Alongside her work, she is completing postgraduate studies while contributing to organisations including Greater Wellington Regional Council, the Oceania-Caribbean Climate Alliance, Global Shapers Wellington Hub, and New Zealand Red Cross. In 2025, Aditi ran as one of the youngest candidates and the only South Asian wahine in the Porirua local elections, reinforcing her belief that representation matters. In her TEDxYouth Paparangi talk, she explores how many of the limits we carry are learned through systems, representation, and inherited narratives, inviting audiences to ask: what becomes possible when we begin to unlearn them?

• Betty Pagulayan

  Year 13 College Student

  "Habang may buhay, may pag-asa." While there is life, there is hope, and Betty carries that hope into their mahi. Betty is a young, passionate creative and advocate. Whether they are behind the camera, speaking in different settings, or volunteering in the community, Betty aims to lead conversations and carry their story. Currently a Year 13 student at Taieri College, this changemaker is actively involved in several initiatives that centre on and are led by young people. Betty also co-hosts Unboxed Identities, a podcast on OAR FM Youth Zone amplifying the voices of diverse rakatahi across the motu.

• James van der Zouwe

  Year 12 College Student

  As Year 12 student at Wellington College, James van der Zouwe is driven by a passion for leadership, communication, and community. A confident public speaker and dedicated footballer, James represents both school and club while also contributing to the school choir and pursuing a strong interest in acting and film. Beyond the classroom, James is actively involved in shaping the school community through leading the Volunteer Club, peer tutoring, Tuakana Teina mentoring, and coaching football. His love of the outdoors is reflected in a passion for tramping and skiing, balancing academic and extracurricular commitments with adventure. Following a three-month exchange in the Netherlands, James developed a broader global perspective and a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures and ideas. This experience now informs a TED talk that aims to challenge perspectives, spark meaningful conversation, and inspire young people to think differently about the World around them.

• Mitchell McJorrow

  Year 13 College Student

  Mitchell McJorrow is a Year 13 student studying the IB Diploma at Scots College. He is involved in a wide range of pursuits, from mathematics competitions to captaining the Scots College rowing team. Alongside his Studies, Mitchell works as a mathematics tutor, Kumon instructor, and rowing coach, and is passionate about helping others reach their full potential. Through his TEDX talk "The Myth of Being Naturally Gifted", Mitchell aims to challenge the belief that success is reserved only for those born With exceptional talent. Drawing on personal experiences and insights from education, sport, and mathematics, he explores how limiting beliefs about ability can prevent us from pursuing our goals. His message encourages audiences to break free from fixed mindsets, embrace growth, and realise that extraordinary achievement is often the product of persistence rather than natural talent.

• Sean Fernandez

  Year 13 College Student

  Hi, I'm Sean Fernandez, a Year 13 student at St. John's College in Hastings, New Zealand. | am passionate about debate, theatre, public speaking, and medicine, and I hope to pursue a career as a surgeon in the future. Growing up across different cultures and countries has shaped the way I see the World, inspiring me to question assumptions and explore new perspectives. My TED talk is inspired by the Greek myth of Icarus. While many people remember Icarus as a warning against ambition, I believe there is another side to the story that is often overlooked. Through this speech, I explore our relationship with ambition, dreams, and the fear of failure, asking why society is often so quick to discourage those who dare to reach beyond what seems possible. By re-examining the story of Icarus, I hope to encourage others to embrace their aspirations and recognise the value of pursuing horizons that may seem just out of reach.